Who can resist a sweet treat? Afternoon tea is a British staple whether you’re celebrating something or simply fancy a bit of indulgence. Whether you’re a jam first or cream first sort of person, there is nothing better than handmade scones, sandwiches, cakes and of course, a good old-fashioned pot of tea 

There are so many great places to enjoy afternoon tea in Greater Manchester from quirky tea rooms to decadent hotels, that it makes choosing between them incredibly difficult. And so, to help, we’ve rounded up our definitive list of the top 10 afternoon teas in Greater Manchester. 

Bon Appetite! 

1. The Library Champagne Bar at The Edwardian Manchester 

The Edwardian Manchester is a hotel that oozes luxury and its afternoon tea is no exception. Hosted in the hotel's social space The Library Champagne Bar, guests can expect a tasty journey of their own. Savour one of Manchester’s finest afternoon teas, freshly prepared in-house by The Library’s pâtissiers. A set of delicious sandwiches made using the most exceptional produce is followed by a handcrafted selection of pâtisseries and scones, complemented by Newby Teas – the world’s most awarded luxury tea brand. For the ultimate indulgence, a sommelier recommends an optional Champagne pairing from their favourite maisons.

2. Hotel Gotham  

If you’re looking for afternoon tea with a view, Hotel Gotham can certainly deliver. Served in their art-deco-inspired Honey Restaurant enjoy afternoon tea overlooking the rooftops of Manchester. Hotel Gotham is a hotel that encapsulates opulence and that’s exactly what you can expect from their afternoon tea offering. Escape the streets of Manchester and indulge in all of the traditional treats served with a Gotham Twist. 

3. The Midland Hotel 

The Midland Hotel is a Manchester institution and so is its tea room. In fact, it’s been a highlight of Manchester’s social scene since the hotel opened in 1903. The Tea Room at The Midland is one of a kind, and Manchester’s only room dedicated to afternoon tea, so you can tell it takes its sweet offering very seriously. The Tea Room works with local suppliers to bring its customers the freshest loose-leaf tea, sandwiches, scones, delicate cakes and pastries. Prices start from £30 per person and there are vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options available. 

4. The Lowry Hotel 

The River Restaurant at The Lowry Hotel has become one of Manchester’s most iconic restaurants. With a stunning river setting, you can enjoy scenic views as well as a delicious section of sandwiches, scones, pastries and fondant fancies. Choose from over 80 teas, Champagne, G&Ts or cocktails to complement your treats, and you can even create a personalised tea blend. It’s safe to say you’ll be spoilt for choice. The afternoon is just £59 for two. 

5. Dakota Manchester 

Manchester’s newest luxury hotel Dakota Manchester provides a true sense of luxury just on the edge of the Northern Quarter. It’s an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Their classic afternoon tea offers the same sense of decadence and is one all tea lovers should try. The menu includes freshly baked scones, a selection of finger sandwiches and homemade teacakes and fancies. There is a selection of teas to choose from or the option to add a glass of fizz or a specially crafted gin cocktail. Prices start from £28 per person. Dakota Manchester promises quality and luxury, and their afternoon tea is no exception.  

6. Refuge 

The Kimpton Clocktower Hotel’s resident restaurant Refuge is one of Manchester’s most stunning venues, it’s steeped in history and glamour and almost instantly transports you back in time. Their afternoon tea is served in The Winter Garden, which brings the outdoors into the gorgeous space. For just £29 per person, you can indulge in savoury treats such as sausage rolls and sandwiches, scones and a variety of cakes from Battenburg to Black Forest Gateaux. There is also a huge selection of cocktails, fizz and of course tea and coffee. 

7. Richmond Tea Rooms 

For an afternoon tea like no other, head to Richmond Tea Rooms. This Alice in Wonderland-themed café offers a truly enchanting offering which will feel fresh from the pages of a storybook. The décor alone is enough to capture your imagination and combined with their selection of afternoon teas it will deliver an experience you won’t forget. Choose between five different afternoon tea menus including Richmond Tea, Queens Tea and Hatters Tea all with a variety of savoury snacks, scones and homemade cakes. A trip to Richmond Tea Rooms is a treat for all of the senses but the tastebuds in particular. 

8. Manchester Art Gallery 

Art lovers and culture vultures, head to the Manchester Art Gallery for afternoon tea and an experience you’ll never forget. Of course, the gallery is full of wonderful art and provides a brilliant day out for all of the family, but the true masterpiece is, of course, the afternoon tea. Choose from a wide range of loose-leaf teas from around the world and taste delicious sandwiches, cakes and scones baked fresh on site every day by our in-house chefs. Prices start from £25 per person and there is also the option to add a glass of Prosecco with vegetarian options available. 

9. Mercure Manchester Piccadilly 

If you like your afternoon tea served with stunning city views, the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly is the place to go. Located in the heart of the city centre, their lounge and restaurant boasts an incredible cityscape view so that you can watch the world go by as you dine. They have a traditional afternoon tea with all of your favourite classic treats and a special Manchester-themed afternoon tea with locally inspired treats including a Vimto Trifle and Manchester Tart. Prices start from £17.50 per person for a traditional afternoon tea and £22.50 per person for the Manchester edition. 

10. Didsbury Bicycle Hire 

The final afternoon tea on our list is one with a difference. Didsbury Bicycle Hire gives you the chance to take your afternoon tea into the great outdoors and make the most of some of Manchester’s stunning outside spaces. Rent one of their retro bikes and enjoy taking in the stunning scenery of Manchester, then settle down for the perfect picnic brought to you by the award-winning French patisserie Bisous Bisous and ethically minded tea and coffee company Worker Bee of Manchester. Made up fresh on the day of your booking, the finest ingredients are put together to provide a selection of artisan sandwiches, fresh mini pastries, macarons and other sweet treats. You can also add champagne to your hamper to celebrate in style. With the bike and hamper delivered to you, it really couldn’t be simpler. 

To view more afternoon tea options in Greater Manchester visit our full listings page. 

To learn more about events in Greater Manchester visit our What’s On page.